Partial federal government shutdown and its impact Campus Message

Campus Community, 

The University of Kentucky is closely monitoring negotiations in Congress regarding funding for the federal government and a potential government shutdown. If funding legislation is not passed by midnight tonight, the federal government will partially shut down. The exact impact of a shutdown depends on its length.

We expect a government shutdown that is short in duration to create minimal disruptions at the university. The impact of a prolonged shutdown will depend on many factors, including the length of time until a deal is reached in Congress and contingency plans for the agencies impacted.

Federal funding for approved student aid and other critical functions across the university should continue to operate in a close-to-normal manner. We will continue to monitor any potential impacts on FAFSA processing. Students with questions or concerns regarding financial aid should contact the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships during regular business hours at 859-257-3172 or OSFAS@uky.edu. 

We expect no immediate impact on research funding already in place — although the process for submitting new federal grant proposals may be impacted. We will share more information as we receive it.

Additionally, a short government shutdown will not impact patient care at this time. UK HealthCare, including UK Kings Daughter and UK St. Claire, will continue providing inpatient and outpatient services at its hospitals and clinics across Lexington and Kentucky. 

As we do each year, a team of administrators have been monitoring and developing plans to ensure we manage operations and minimize disruption.  

You can find additional information about the impacts of the shutdown, as well as answers to frequently asked questions, at pres.uky.edu/federal-government-shutdown-faq.

 I will continue to keep you informed of important updates.

Eli Capilouto 

President